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The devastating story of the Stayner family reveals how differently trauma can manifest within the same family, as one brother became a hero for escaping his kidnapper while the other became the notorious Yosemite Park Killer. This tale of kidnapping, heroism, neglect, and murder demonstrates the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma and the critical importance of mental health support.

• Steven Stayner was kidnapped at age 7 and held captive for seven years by Kenneth Parnell
• After Parnell kidnapped 5-year-old Timmy White, Steven heroically escaped with Timmy and brought him to safety
• Steven's return brought media frenzy and national attention, while his brother Carrie faded into the background
• Steven struggled to reintegrate into normal life, facing bullying and turning to substance abuse before establishing a family
• A TV movie about Steven's life called "I Know My First Name is Steven" drew 40 million viewers
• Steven died in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident the night before the Emmy Awards
• Cary Stayner developed mental health issues that went largely untreated
• Working at Cedar Lodge near Yosemite, Cary murdered three tourists in February 1999
• Cary's crimes revealed a pattern of sociopathic behavior, including sexual assault and taunting communications with police
• The Stayner family had a history of intergenerational trauma, including abuse, alcoholism, and mental illness

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Wicked Wanderings is hosted by Hannah & Courtney and it's produced by Rob Fitzpatrick. Music by Sascha Ende.

Wicked Wanderings is a Production of Studio 113